AmaZulu eye strong finish despite long layoff ahead of Pirates clash

Pirates have played six matches since the 3rd of May, including two intense Soweto derbies, one being the Nedbank Cup final.

Usuthu were scheduled to face the expelled Royal AM on the 17th, but that fixture was scrapped. Ofori weighs up the pros and cons of the long break.

"We have received more days to rest, but at the same time, the break for us is also not favourable because they are playing and gaining momentum. So, the more rest you get, the more you feel like you are starting again," said the goalkeeper. 

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Despite the layoff, the Ghanaian shot-stopper says their preparation over the past three weeks has gone well. AmaZulu drew 1-1 with Polokwane City in their last outing, and Ofori is confident they’ve used the break wisely.

AmaZulu will begin their final match of the season in sixth position on the log, while Pirates have all but secured second place. But midfielder Ethan Brooks dismisses any notion that the visitors will take it lightly.

He says Usuthu are focused on finishing the season strong, especially with so many teams scrambling for points on the final day.

"All we are going to focus on is ourselves to finish the season how we want to, and not pay too much attention to other teams and what they need to do on the last day," emphasized Brooks. 

Usuthu wrapped up the 2023/24 season in 11th place. With one match to go in the current campaign, they are on course to finish higher, and Brooks credits the squad’s resilience throughout the season.